Saturday, December 15, 2012

I'd like to start this with a clip from my novel Deaf, Dumb, Blind & Stupid: There are so
many people who are plagued with ADD, ADHD, PTSD, BPD, Bipolar and other mental
disorders, and we steadily punish them for their mental differences and
chemical imbalances ... Why are we only sympathetic if OUR child has a mental
disorder? On the contrary, if you know someone else whose child has a mental
disorder, they need a beating ... Somebody needs to hear them, or we as a
country will continue to lose God-gifted people to the hands of death. Either
abused victims will take their own lives, or they will become sadistic and take
somebody else’s life. If we don’t discern their hearts and pray for them, these
are the consequences that will be suffered among teenagers and among people who
are dying.

Many people talk about gun control being the issue. I
believe mental illness is the issue (and we want to do something about it after
the fact). It’s time for us to get our heads out of the sand and be proactive
in saving people (especially the next generation). Instead of cursing those
with mental illness, they deserve love and respect just like we do. I
personally believe the media is using “gun control” for political reasons.
Seriously, guns don't hate or kill, people do. Gun control won’t solve the
problem. Dealing with the root of mental illness (but more importantly sin) is
how to deal with hatred! We can talk gun control all over the place, watch
there be more homicides. Remember illegal business controls America.
Something to think about.

My plea is for the mothers of America to not put a band-aid on
this thing called mental illness. Parents look at that as an embarrassment
(ruining the image of the mother). How do I know this? I have a mental illness
and in therapy. Now, will my illness make me go out and kill someone? No! For
some it might. Now when it comes to suicide, the possibility is greater &
we struggle with that regularly. I pray that mothers of America stop
living in denial when abuse is happening in your home and you actually know it.
Back to suicide, when a person has a mental illness (and no one even bothers to
look at it), it's no surprise if they become sadistic. Adding insult to injury,
when we even think of suicide or actually proceed with it, we're looked at as
outcasts.

In the AA community, mental illness is looked at as the
“dirty or little black secret.” We can never see the truth if we stay in
darkness. Sadly, we put stereotypes on people, every situation must be evaluated.
Some would say if blacks murdered, they’re a criminal. If whites murdered, they
have a mental illness. That stereotype is totally wrong. Every situation must
be evaluated. If I were to murder someone, they wouldn't say I have a mental
illness, but use the stigma that "I'm black!" Never mind the fact I
have a mental illness. Every part of our bodies get sick, even the mind (I
don’t care how holy you think you are, it gets sick like every other part of
your body). Yes, we do have battles in the mind, but there’s nothing wrong with
seeking help if you have a mental disorder. But for some of us, we’re so holy
that we want to preach over their heads talking down to them like they ARE
stupid. But if it was your child, you’d want everyone to stop what they were
doing and help your child, pray for you and your child. That shows how selfish
we are.

There are some who know people with mental illness, and you
intentionally make them the poster child and talk down on them like they’re
stupid. How dare you?

And there are some who say that the shooter should’ve just
shot himself. Here’s my response: We as a country glorify death, provided we
don't have to give up our own lives.

If you have a moment, I have a YouTube link on my wall
(about abuse/mental illness), check it out.

Monday, November 19, 2012

I was privileged to meet this author at the BWABC Literacy Festival this past September. In fact, her novel Secrets of a Kept Woman is now a stage play. Having said that, show your love for my sister & fellow author Shani Greene-Dowdell).

She brings to the forefront issues of every woman’s heart
and soul. She keeps it real and says what every one else would only dare to
think. Author Shani Greene-Dowdell’s powerful and provoking writing style and
insight into the sexuality, joy, pain, and frustration in
relationships distinguishes her as an urban fiction and erotica
author. Shani Greene-Dowdell is a living example that consistency,
perseverance, and prayer are the keys to success. As a living example of living
victorious over every obstacle, Shani shares her lessons learned and inspires
others with the truth in her written works. As a prolific author and
playwright, Shani Greene-Dowdell unveils the common hopes, dreams, and
obstacles that every woman encounters.

Her sophomore novel “Secrets of a Kept Woman” is a powerful
journey addressing the complex needs of African American women to embrace one
another instead of tearing each other down. Uninhibitedly, Shani shares with
her readers’ passion, humor, and the intricate bonds of friendship. Shayla,
Rhonda and Gladys learn the importance of cherishing the love that binds them
by seeking the love of God before it’s too late. “There is nothing like being
in synch with someone that knows your heart, knows your spirit, and knows
exactly when to stroke them both,” narrates a passage from the book.
Bringing to the forefront probing, honest, and life-changing issues, Shani’s
“Secrets of a Kept Woman” uses everyday language and metaphors to empower
readers to have healthier relationships with those closest to their heart.

Shani is committed to writing about issues that empower
women, especially by empowering them to achieve their dreams at all costs. Her
novels show uncommon faces in urban fiction that include college graduates,
doctors, lawyers, and business owners. She demonstrates that in order to
find diamonds in life you have to have
clear vision and be prepared to work, which means you have to be
prepared to work on yourself during the process. As a native of Alabama, she paints
pictures of her community through poetry, short stories and novels, and
continues to broaden her horizons through her stage play, Secrets of a Kept
Woman and hopes one day to see her work in film.

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

I am so blessed to present this author as the spotlight for this week. I was able to meet her in person at the BWABC Literacy Festival in September and I'm looking forward to working on my next project with her. With that said, show your love for my sister & fellow author Ondrea L. Davis.

Ondrea L. Davis is a native of the Washington, DC
area. She graduated in 2010 earning a degree in Business Administration
with a concentration in Accounting and most recently received a Master of Arts
degree in Social Behavior. Ondrea is a 35 year old mother of 11-year old twin
girls and a 9-year old son. Her children are members of the Cub Scout and
Girl Scout troops where she serves as a volunteer. Ondrea has always been very
active within her church. With a passion for helping our younger generation,
Ondrea works with the Youth Department where she currently serves as Vice
President.

In 2010, Ondrea heeded the call to pen her inspirational
true story. After many months of soul searching, she signed on with
Foresight Publishing, LLC and released How could my husband be GAY? This title garnered
several awards, including 1st place in the 2011 Readers Favorite Awards in Non
Fiction-Relationships, the 2011 Books-And-Authors.net Book of the Year for
Autobiographical Alternative. The book was also listed as a 2011 African
American Literature Book Club (AALBC) Bestselling eBook. Ondrea’s much
anticipated second novel is scheduled to be released in early 2013.

In her spare time, Ondrea loves traveling, singing, reading,
spending time with family and working with her company, Foresight Publishing.
In addition, she enjoys tours to speak with churches, book clubs and
women's interest and youth groups promoting the awareness of subjects we tend
to ignore. She has found that many times the things we want to avoid are
the things we need to discuss the most. Her theme is “DISCUSSION -> AWARENESS
-> PREVENTION”. Ondrea thoroughly believes in taking simple
preventative measures, such as discussion and encouragement to help guide
people along the right path, rather than waiting until after mistakes are made
and suffer unnecessary consequences. For more information, please visit www.ondrealdavis.com.

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

This was on my spirit last night and it carried on into
today. One thing I can truly say is that elections always bring out the worst
in us (for all people, regardless of skin color). We forget about God and focus
more on what we want. It’s a sad day for me. Not because President Obama is in
office and not because Governor Mitt Romney is not President. It’s a sad day
because as I’m reading different posts, it has shown really where our hearts
are. I’m trying not to cry as I type this and it would be a tragedy if I lost
friends to this, but it is what it is. I’m not upset with anyone regardless of
who you voted for, just concerned about our spiritual condition.

As I read people’s posts, many people are rejoicing because
they got what they wanted, but the same people are forgetting how much hatred
they are spreading. This election has truly shown the racial issues that are
brewing. You could call this the second part to a blog I did two weeks ago
entitled “Is It (Really) Not About Us.” This election proved my theory that
it’s still about us.

In the midst of this, I’m crying because where’s God in all
that we’re posting. God is only mentioned when we got what we wanted. Much like
the children of Israel.
I know this post isn’t going to go over well (granted, most of what I say
doesn’t go over well). But if I have to cry alone, I will. I’m so concerned
about the state of our hearts (especially if we say we’re of God). No one has
said “I am content regardless of who’s elected, because You’re Sovereign.” But
we say to God indirectly, if we don’t get our way, we’re going to kick, scream
and revolt like little children. So, I believe that God is now giving our
hearts what we really wanted (again, on a spiritual level), a world without
Him. Since it’s our sinful nature to say, “leave us alone, and let mankind take
it from here.”

I did say 2-3 months ago that President Obama will get a
second term, so I’m not surprised of that. When you have to read posts such as
“I pray for the Republicans that they remove their hatred,” I ask, what about
YOUR hatred? Are you that deceived in that Democrats don’t have hatred? People
say, now we can move forward. Why? Because you got your way and I didn’t. Is
that how we live our lives (having others bow down to you, a mere human being)?
If something isn’t wrong with that, why do we say we love God?

No one is praying for the losing candidate, but instead
cursing him. How is that showing the love of Christ? If we say we love God,
we’re to love all people (regardless of political parties). We’re reliving the
children of Israel
and the golden calf days (we’re worshiping the golden image and not God). The
golden calf is not just the President, it’s anything that takes the place of
God.

As I wrap this up, I still believe regardless of who won this election, this was an acid test
to see where our hearts really are. As I look at my newsfeed, God is only
mentioned because they got what they wanted. Never mind God's ultimate plan.
We're acting like the children of Israel (give us what we want or
we'll revolt). So, he’s giving us what we deserve. The problem with our hearts
(as a country) is simply this: the true righteous who are praying the heart of
God are going to suffer (much like Joshua & Caleb) because the majority
couldn't agree with Joshua & Caleb. And all of us are part of the team. And
yes, God will spare Sodom/Gomorrah for 10 righteous. Even though we will
suffer, God is with us. Psalm 118 said (and I quoted it 12 years ago), it's
better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.

I know this blog post isn’t going to go over well, but I
just wanted to get this out of my spirit because while we’re caring more about
what we want, somebody is dying next door, possibly committing suicide.

Monday, November 5, 2012

Happy Monday everyone. This week's author spotlight is a woman who I've known since the beginning of this year and was honored to meet her in September at the BWABC Literacy Festival in Memphis, TN. Show your love to my sister & fellow author, Tyora Moody.

Tyora Moody is an author and entrepreneur. Her debut novel, When
Rain Falls, was released March 2012 (Urban
Christian). This is the first book in the Victory Gospel series. The
second book in the Victory Gospel Series, When
Memories Fade, will be released in April 2013 (Urban
Christian).

Deep Fried
Trouble, the first book in the Eugeena Patterson Mystery series will
be released June 2013.
Tyora has coined her books as Soul-Searching Suspense.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime and American Christian Fiction Writers. She
served as a judge for the Christy Awards for three years.

She owns and operates TywebbinCreations.com,
a design and marketing company. For over twelve years, she has
worked with authors, small business owners and non-profit organizations to
develop their online presence. For free tips, how-to guides and ecourses,
visit DIYwithTy.com.

When Tyora isn’t working for a client or doing something literary, she
enjoys spending time with family, catching a movie on the big screen, traveling
and when the mood hits her, baking cookies.
Visit the author online at TyoraMoody.com.

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

I was privileged to meet this author at the BWABC Literacy
Festival (in Memphis, TN) in September 2012. It's sad that it took
this event for us to meet considering we live in the same state and we're 4.5
hours away from each other (smile). Having said that, show some love to my
sister & fellow author Laquanda Everett.

Author Laquanda Everett is an Evangelist, mother of four,
and the author of the bestselling novel Forbidden Love" A Spiritual
Woman's Battle To Love A Worldly Man." She was born in a small town called
Bradenton, Florida. It was at Bradenton
where Laquanda would graduate from Southeast
High School. She went on
to earn her license in nursing, homehealth, and a degree in medical
administration. Laquanda is currently attending Phoenix University
for her bachelor's in medical administration. The voice of God called her to Evangelize
and minister the word of God. This is where she was appointed as a board member
of the Justice Ministry Faith Action for Strength Together (FAST). The FAST
organization advocates and finds solutions to community issues. She’s
currently following God’s vision that she would teach, preach, and touch lives
from many cultures. As a result, Laquanda began to write Christian Fiction that
would light a fire in believers and unbelievers. These novels by a stroke of a
pen would go on to bring repentance, deliverance, healing and closer desire to
walk with God.

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Many people have been singing this song, “It’s Not About Us,
It’s All About Jesus.” Side note: yes, that song samples The Brothers Johnson’s
I’ll Be Good To You (ha ha). Anyway, well I know your intentions are good, but
if the truth be told, we’re lying (to others and really to ourselves). Now, if
this blog post doesn’t offend anyone, I’ll be surprised. I just wanted to make
this disclaimer up front. I know many people are emotionally tied to what I’m
going to talk about, but I want you to read this with an open mind if you can. If
I’m a little scatterbrained with this, please forgive me.

Within a few weeks the election will occur. I hear a lot of
comments and read a lot of comments on my news feed about the debates and how
strong people feel about people. I’m still concerned even after 12 years (since
the 2000 election) that too many emotions are flying and people are voting and
praying for their way and not God's way. People have been throwing stones at me
for 12 years because I make that statement. Keep in mind, I’m not telling you
who to vote and I love you as a brother/sister regardless of who you vote for.
I also ask for the same respect in return. I believe with all my heart that if
you pray and God tells you to vote a certain way, go with God because you can’t
go wrong. Now if you pray based off your emotions, indecision and fear, then
something is terribly wrong. Don’t worry; I’m not to judge you for that’s not
my place. We can play the "I love God, but I still want my way." Our
emotions will fail us. We still haven't learned from the children of Israel when they demanded a king (they were
trying to be like Egypt).
So many people want to go back to Egypt thinking they can live on top
of the world. Either way, whoever gets elected, many people are going to cry
foul (and forget God in the midst of this). It's been like that for 12 years.
We can sing all day long, it's not about us, but we're lying.

If I came up and said something like this, “I promise to
give a certain group of people certain rights because they’re my people and
we’re to look out for the poor; however, the caveat is that I want you to
depend on us for your retirements, benefits, etc,” would you vote for me? Now
if Jesus were to say this quietly in your spirit (but you don’t hear because
you’re too busy running your mouth, venting about the debates): “do not vote
Democrat or Republican,” how would you respond? I can tell some people are in
the flesh and are actually upset with me right now because I said that.

I knew someone 12 years ago who told me the following, “I
don’t consider you black if you’re not a Democrat.” I didn’t respond, I wanted
to sit on it and just ponder the fact that I didn’t realize that my skin-color
was automatically tied to a political party. Just for the record, I’m
independent and have been since I was 18. Any regrets? No. So, this post is
going to be from a neutral standpoint. If you’re expecting me to take any side,
think again! You can say I’m apathetic, or whatever you like. I have to stand
before God when I vote just like you have to stand before God when you vote.

I have a series of questions that I want to ask:

Why
are we still looking to our leaders to solve our problems and to accept
responsibility over ourselves? Every problem our leaders come up with
requires their attention and their solution.

Why do
we vote more for someone who is the slave-master versus the abolitionist?
We trust the kidnapper, rapist, and murderer because he promised he’s
changed, but we don’t trust those who gave his life for our freedom
because the master doesn’t trust them.

Do you
believe that social programs belong to the church and the family, not the
government?

How
does color and politics overshadow your relationship with Christ?

I
dedicate this question to African-Americans, if I came up and said I’m an
atheist while professing to be a Christian (and I’m running for
president), would you still vote for me? And if non-blacks don’t vote,
would you throw the race card at them?

How
does Genesis 26:12-22 correlate to today? Isaac was blessed by God and
other people were coming to take Isaac’s blessing from him. God continued
to bless Isaac and people were still coming to steal Isaac’s blessing. I
believe we take blessings from others because we are complacent and don’t
want to put our hands to the plow for ourselves.

There’s something I see that really bothers me (and I’m sure
it’s been going on before I was born). It’s wrong when a man can’t be in the
house with their children because welfare and other aid are shut off. On the
flipside, women are encouraged to have more children because their aid and
government services would be increased. To me, welfare doesn’t mean just
payments to a family for basic subsistence; it also includes a system to
discourage marriage and the participation of a man in the household.

Next topic: The 10th commandment says you shall
not covet. If you desire something that doesn’t belong to you, it’s coveting
(period)! If the truth be told, the Bible is against a lot of the Republican
values, Democratic values, and even our own personal values. This is why we are
to base our values on the Bible. But no, we put our pastor, president (elect
and actual), religion and denomination over the Bible. And if anybody attacks
our pastor, president (elect and actual), religion and denomination, we will drop
our sanctification and curse/fight, and the list goes on. And don’t attack sin
in my life, but I can attack yours. Most of you know me, I’ll confess mine
because I’m human and I screw up.

Here’s a little sidebar. Think about this: We care more
about our political feelings than we do someone who is hurting. Understand, we
must be there to uplift and help propel one another to their God given destiny.
Far too many times I realized in life that people have become mediocre in their
mindset, they view their lives like this, “if I don't have help, I'm not
helping anyone else.” In this case we know it’s wrong. Many Christians have the
mentality of, “if you’re getting ahead of me, I must to all that I can to
hinder that.” A lot of times that comes with themselves in their past to hurt
others as they've been. There’s a saying that goes “hurting people hurt people”
regardless of who they may be.

Jesus was up all times of the night and early mornings delivering and setting
free those who were bound to the enemy’s attacks. We as Messengers of the Word
of God must be likeminded. We are in this together. There is no “I” in team.
Unity is the key to help others. To many have this misconception that it’s all
about me and when I finish me I'll help you. No! Christ said deny yourself. And
that means one must deny themselves in the area of me, me, me and say Lord I
decrease that You may increase within me.

Jesus dealt with that mess with the Pharisees, called them vipers and accepting
who He was but denying the power.

Now that may be a little off-tangent, but still relevant to
the topic. Continuing on. There are many people in church that say, “I’m
allowed to think freely.” I disagree. There are many religions that don’t allow
you to think freely. Now if a church says that abortion is allowed for rape or
incest, then you must take on that principle or you could be excommunicated.
So, if your church is praying for a particular leader, then there’s a strong
possibility that you have to be a part of it, or risk getting out (or hearing
grips from members of the congregation as to why you’re not a part of this
prayer). I have a belief that many people don’t want to pray for someone lost
because there will come a day where a leader is so lost, that people will bow
down to that lost leader! Sadly, many people will confront you if you disagree
with your church leader (and they really are in error). The worse thing you can
do is shut down when truth is presented. If what you’re hearing doesn’t sound
right, please research it (I don’t care if it’s a political figure, or church
figure – please don’t do it to support your personal agenda, do it in search of
the truth). Since I’m on prayer, let’s stay on that topic. It bothers me when
we do prayer vigils for a political figure, but not for someone who’s suffering
from abuse, mental and/or personality disorders (known or hidden), who just
needs a touch from the Lord. Prayer vigils for a political figure is just
proving that it’s still about us!

Let me wrap this up with some bullet points:

I
thought the Declaration of Independence gave us inalienable rights

I have
a few predictions of what will happen November 6th, 2012, but I
will give you this one: stones will be thrown for people who write-in this
election (from all groups of people).

It’s
sad that there are laws that decide which groups are special (and you can
yell discrimination if challenged).

Some
people think if we remove God from the equation, we can make it work. And
look what we have: fears, hatred, backstabbing, etc. With this point, I
still believe God will give us what mankind has always wanted – a world
without God.

I said
12 years ago and it still holds true: If we don’t get our way, we will
rebel until we get our way. If anybody invades my personal space, prepare
for a showdown. We should never put our faith in the election. Because we
do, this proves my theory that it IS all about us.

Monday, October 22, 2012

I started to entitle this blog It Takes Two. Some of you are either thinking about Rob Base or the version done by Marvin & Kim.
I’m doing to divide this blog into two parts.

The foundational scriptures for this entire blog are as
follows:

Genesis 2

Matthew 18:19-20

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

Amos 3:3

Genesis 11 (mostly for Part 2)

So, let’s begin.

(Part 1 of 2)

Let me start by
asking a question or two:

Why
did Jesus always send His disciples out two by two? He could’ve covered
more ground just by sending one.

Isn’t
it good that God said that if only two people agree instead of fifty?
Think about this, Jesus spoke and people left Him. I’m sure He knew having
extra baggage would cost Him.

Why
was Paul always accompanied with Barnabas or Silas when he did his
missions?

Understand that there’s synergy (in the natural and
spiritual) when two people get together and do what God called them to do. But
I’m also glad that it doesn’t take the majority (example: Joshua & Caleb).
Those two were in agreement in taking the Promised Land (Numbers 13 & 14).
Though they were cheated 40 years because they were part of a team (and the
other 10 spies operated in fear), they still got to the Promised Land.

In the beginning, you’ll find that God created a helper for
Adam. Note to the brothers: woman wasn’t created to be your domestic slave or
playmate. We all must understand that a man and woman complement each other,
and should NOT compete against each other. I’ll cover the house divided in Part
2.

Single people need a praying friend, and NOT someone who
will take your time to include not adding value to your life (and that’s also
for married people). We should have someone to agree with and not qualify everything.
Married people need to learn their mate and if need be, go to God on their
behalf (stand for their mate) especially is something is troubling them (so
they can stay in agreement).

I’m telling you, that “I’m Every Woman” and that “I’m a
Self-Made Man” spirit needs to go!

What I like about Matthew 18:19-20 and Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
is this: when two or three are gathered in His name, there’s also a third
person in the midst (which of course is the Holy Spirit). Daniel 3 is a perfect
example. When the three Hebrew boys went through the fire, there was a fourth
person.

Amos 3:3 says can two walk together except they be agreed.
Sadly, some try to enter into something that’s godly (and yes, I’m talking
about marital relations), but it’s on their own terms (butt first). If there’s
no agreement (in this case, covenant), nothing will come out that’s good. Each
person is being selfish and that brings me to part 2.

(Part 2 of 2)

This part will focus on hindrances to agreement. Selfishness
& division go hand-in-hand.

Isolation (comes in two ways). Intentional and unintentional
(the latter is because people don’t want to bear burdens or are too selfish). I
want to focus more on the unintentional because this gets overlooked. Sometimes
we end up alone not by choice is because others are being selfish and only
focused on their own lives and their own families and their own circle of
friends. Speaking on behalf of abused victims, many of us end up alone because
of selfishness which brings about division. When division settles, the devil is
authorized to be involved (the selfish one is prideful and the one hurt turns
to other means to self-medicate – and some turn away from church). We need to
understand that no blessing will come to you when you’re being selfish. Of course,
the intentional isolation is due to the person’s own sin and selfishness.

What am I saying? Well, the devil needs an agreement
partner. Once we become selfish (example is giving lip service to someone
hurting by saying “oh, get over it,” or “I’ll pray for you [from afar]” without
stopping what you’re doing to come alongside – and yes, there needs to be a
balance), we’re giving the devil (the father of division) something to work
with. Selfishness does not bring agreement. Where there’s envy and strife,
there’s confusion and every evil work.

Tell me something (a little off subject): if we can’t show
love to a hurting soul, how will they see Jesus? And this is what the enemy
breeds on. Sadly, we’re preying on each other out of frustration and despair
(no need for the devil to divide us, we’re doing a good job doing it
ourselves). Another note, God didn’t create this division, we did.

In order to stop the division, we have to be sensitive to
each other so we can agree. If I can’t reach out to a brother/sister, I’m no
good for the Lord. Another passage said if a house is divided, it can’t stand.
If my house is divided and I come into church without dealing with the division
in the house, I’m infecting the church with my division. When there’s division
in the church, selfishness is inevitable and folks with gifts who visit a
church are turned off due to the division. I said earlier that when there’s
envy and strife, there’s confusion. When it’s festered in the church, gifts are
lost or the church will become very prideful and state that gifts are only for
the church. And then we start bashing other churches creating more chaos. If a
church is in agreement, then the gifts that each person has can truly be
manifested in the local church as well as the world for His glory.

And of course, I can’t wrap this up without covering Genesis
11. Those working on the Tower
of Babel were in
agreement (but also in rebellion). And you’ll find that good agreement is about
to meet bad agreement. Good agreement went down and confounded their language.

(In Closing)

There’s power when you yoke up with someone full of the
power of God. It’s serious when two people partner to do what God called them
to do (each fulfilling the other’s purpose). There’s no selfishness or division
when the power of two is at work! If we can agree on the things of God, we can
truly change world for His glory!

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Indecision - the feeling that you are unable to make a
decision. As I look at the definition, indecision can be a good thing or a bad
thing. It can be a good thing especially if we're yielding to the will of God.
It can be a bad thing if we're indecisive and decide to take matters into our
hands.

The focus of this blogpost is about the spirit of indecision
and having what we believe in put to the ultimate test. I believe when your
belief (or should I say your faith) is challenged, it
will determined if you will be true to what you believe or will you just fall
to the place of indecision. Another factor to consider is when your faith is
challenged, it will determine if it even holds up in the first place. Just because
you believe in something, doesn’t mean it’s the right thing. When it really is
the right thing, you will be put to the test. Many will fall into indecision
and take matters into our own hands (some will get emotionally tied to it). I’ve
fallen into this at times, so if I’m not talking about you, I’m talking about
me.

Now, many things are happening around us. And you would
question why you are in the place you’re at right now. You feel paralyzed by
fear, panic, indecision, and the list goes on. Can you just stop for a moment?
While you’re in that feeling of fear, panic, indecision, the devil is loving
every moment of this because if you stay in it too long and no one is around
you to encourage you, pray for you, you will become a casualty. You see, just
because you have a strong belief in something doesn’t mean you’re immune from
having it being put to the test. The devil, who is the god of this world,
governs this world by fear, lies and poverty. The devil needs partners to agree
with him to keep as many people in the spirit of indecision and its cousins.
This is why we need agreement partners strong in faith (that’s for a blog to
come shortly, so stay tuned for that). In order to prepare for what’s to come, break
the spirit of indecision by yielding to the will of God because I guarantee
you, if you don’t, you will waste what’s remaining of your life.

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Hebrews 11:1 says now faith is the substance of things hoped
for, the evidence of things not seen. Many people have heard many
interpretations of that verse. For this post, we’re going to focus on having a
faith in Him that will carry us when we go through a period of testing and
trials in life. At the very end, I’m going to share a little of my struggle
during the course of writing my novel, and I wondered where the Lord was.

If we looked at the three Hebrew boys in Daniel 3; you’ll
find them at the point where they’re about to be thrown in the fire. Let’s
focus closely where they tell the king that our God is able to deliver us from
the fire and from the king. They were determined that God will deliver them
from their trouble. You have to admit that the boys had a faith that was on
point. And you have to admit that this was a trial that would cost them their
lives. Because they responded to the king that they weren’t going to bow down
to him, the furnace was seven times hotter. The king’s men bound them up and
prepared them for the furnace, now watch this: the king’s men ended up in the
fire. As a result, the three boys fell into the fire. Let’s pause for a minute.
Where’s God in all of this? When we’re in the middle of a crisis, we tend to
ask, Lord, where are you. Hopefully, after reading this, you won’t have to ask
where He is (or encourage somebody who needs to know God is with them). The
three boys weren’t initially delivered from the king or the fire. It was when
they were in the fire that God walked with them. Sometimes God won’t deliver us
when we’re going through a test or a trial. He will wait till we’re in it to
deliver us. What we have to do is to have God’s Word in our heart and a faith that
He is with us at all times. With that said, we must have a faith that He will
deliver us in His time.

You might have gone through something in your life, and
wondered where the Lord was. There’s a possibility that you went through it and
weren’t delivered, not because He doesn’t love you or doesn’t care about you;
you were chosen to make a serious impact around you. Think about this, when God
walked with the three Hebrew boys, what happened? They were called out, and the
king worshipped the true & living God. That’s serious. You are a survivor
of something unique that can have a positive impact on someone else’s life and
the devil doesn’t like you at all. If he can keep you in further torment, you
won’t make an impact around you.

The devil wants you to bow down to him. And that’s typically
how he’ll do it. He’ll threaten you to comply so you won’t make an impact. Now,
I’m not saying that you have to willingly endure hardships. God will allow it
for His purpose (though the devil wants to destroy you).

In Genesis 39, when Joseph was thrown in the pit, you’ll
find it stated multiple times that the Lord was with Joseph. Potiphar’s wife
lied on him (a trap from the devil). If Joseph gave in, his impact to Egypt would’ve
been stifled. But Joseph did the right thing and still faced another hardship
due to the lie of Potiphar’s wife. God will still with Him and was given favor
in prison. God wants you to know that He’s with you in your darkest hour and
that you believe He will deliver you and provide for you; but you have faith that
He is will you and you are not forgotten. Have faith in His Word, His will for
your life, and He will take care of you.

Now let’s pause for a moment. Think back to when you last
said, Lord where are you? What was going on in your life? Was it a financial
setback? Was someone trying to harm you physically, mentally, emotionally,
spiritually? Were you let go from your job? Did you lose your child via a
miscarriage? And you needed the Lord the day before yesterday.Of course, there are many more scenarios that
I didn’t mention where you needed the Lord the day before yesterday. When you
were in this scenario, you were praying, fasting, asking someone to intercede
for you, or probably running away from God in anger. Does that sound accurate?
Even though all of that occurred, God came through at the last minute (in our
eyes, of course). What’s the message here, God knows what’s best for us and
wants to have a faith in Him that He is with us no matter what we’re dealing
with in life (whether good or bad).

As I promised, here’s what I went through. During the time
of writing my novel, I faced something that almost took my life and I wondered
where God was at a desperate time of need. Late last year, I experienced the
breakup of a friendship. To me it was devastating and I really wanted a
relationship with her. I felt that my life was over and I seriously
contemplated ending my life. I asked God almost every night, where was He and
to take these feelings from me. I was literally left alone (with the exception
of very few friends who really prayed for me), for people were abandoning me
leaving me to deal with this on my own (and some probably didn’t want to pray
for me). I struggled with that for about 4 months until the time I submitted my
novel to my editor. The novel wasn’t the cause for me feeling that way, it was
the relationship going wrong. I felt like everything was my fault (and granted,
people inside & outside the church were saying it was my fault and that I
need to deal with it). God showed me that He was with me through it all and it
showed during the writing of the novel. If you have a copy of my novel, look at
the acknowledgments and you’ll find that was very personal to me. If I had
given up, like the devil wanted me to, you all wouldn’t have a novel (and
believe me, the devil would’ve been ecstatic if had not been released). I thank
you all for receiving my novel so graciously, and most importantly, I give God
praise for the strength and being with me through writing it. With that, I want
to thank my editor and copyeditor for being my friends through it. You two had
to hear me my cries the most (apart from the Lord, of course).

In closing, when we ask the Lord, where is He; remember He
said in His Word, that He will never leave us no forsake us. It may not seem
like He’s there when we want Him to be, but He’s always there. He’ll show up in
His time when we’re in a difficult situation. Most cases, it’s to build our
faithfulness in Him, and for us to strengthen someone else after we’ve made it
through. Now I have to thank God because He has really strengthened me after
releasing my novel. Someone else can say that they have been strengthened by
Him after gone through something traumatic. Don’t let the devil lie to you
saying that He’s forgotten about you. But remember, we have choices to make and
we must learn to make Godly choices under pressure. Even if we make unrighteous
choices, we repent and He will still be with us. Now the question we really
should be asking is not where God is; but asking where we are. Most of
the time, we’re hiding like Adam & Eve from the Lord. He wants us to run to
Him (whether we sin or not). Let’s stop our hiding and find refuge in a God who
loves us, who is with us and wants us to be faithful to Him alone.

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Many people say that people are in our lives for a reason,
season, or a lifetime. If we carry this attitude in our relationships with
people, we can miss a lot of blessings. It can also breed selfishness. Why do I
say this? If we have a spirit of love towards everyone, we don’t have to spend
all of our time focused on how long a person is in our life. Most people
classify people like that is because they have a motive of their own. This is not
to condemn anyone; we should always have a spirit of love and generosity
towards people. No matter how long a person stays in your life, treasure the
time with them and don’t cut them off unless you really need to regulate or
terminate the relationship (especially if they’re taking you down a path that’s
contrary to Scripture). Sadly, we terminate relationship because of trivial
things (I could write the numerous trivial things, but it’s not relevant to
this post) and our own selfishness. Think about it, Jesus didn’t cut Judas out
of His life. Judas cut himself off by betraying Him and taking his own life.
Jesus really wanted Judas to repent and He still showed compassion towards him.

If the truth be told, the Kingdom of God
is centered on relationships. Yes, He is the Lord of the Harvest but we need to
understand that our breakthrough, our increase, our open and closed doors are
hinged on someone. Many times we miss that blessing because we don’t want to
get along with people or we’re judging them because they appear different than
you. Some of us are holding on to Bitterness, Unforgiveness, and Grudges (what
I call the BUG syndrome), which is a great hindrance to our blessings. What we
need to understand is that the one who annoys you totally can be the very one
who has your breakthrough. This is why we need to follow God’s lead and not our
own! Let’s look at Luke 6:38, it says “Give and it shall be given unto you;
good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall MEN
give into your bosom.” Notice that it didn’t say shall God. I need to say this:
sometimes we miss a blessing because of pride. Someone reading this post needs
to swallow their pride and ask for help or prayer, or not look down on people
because they don’t have a title. Some of those people you look down on could
actually have your blessing. Remember pride goes before destruction. That
selfish spirit of “I can do it by myself” or “I’m to have all the answers”
needs to go! In summary of this paragraph, there will be people who mistreat
you. Don’t think for one minute that it’s not God. They could be, but we need
to learn to get along with others and relate to people (now I’m not saying to
kiss up to people – many of you know me and how I feel about that). Always
remember, the righteous will never be forsaken!

Another problem is that we’re trying to determine our
blessings on our own terms. Most blessings come when we are united with other
brothers and sisters as we’re helping each other with our God-given
assignments. And to think, God gave us all of the resources we need. He didn’t
drop anything from the sky. A little side-note: there will some people who will
be complacent and not put their hands to the plow when it comes to their
assignment, while still praying for a blessing from God. He can do all things,
but He won’t do your assignment for you. As I just mentioned, He has given us
the resources so we can complete our respective assignment. My assignment
affects you, and your assignment affects me and they both make us better and
more effective to the world.

In closing: relationships are critical. Always treat people
with respect and with God’s love. Philippians 2:3-4 says this: Don’t do
anything from selfish ambition or from a cheap desire to boast, but be humble
toward one another, always considering others better than yourselves. And look
out for one another’s interests, not just for your own.

This is why we need to be led by His Spirit (walking and
living by faith) and not be moved by what we see in front of us!

Monday, August 13, 2012

Sheri Henry-Harrigan is an author and publisher for
her company Diamond Studded Publications which was founded in 2012. She has one
short story and two flash fiction titles published under the pen name
MzSheriBaby. They are Tales of the Broken Hearted, Tangled Desires and Da
Streetz Don't Luv Me Like She Do. She is currently working on 4 projects
including her first screen play. Sheri also is a promoter. She promotes authors
works via social media.

She is a wife and the mother of a two year old son. She is
currently a student at John Jay college
of Criminal Justice in New York, New
York expected to graduate in 2013. She resides in New York City.

Monday, August 6, 2012

I’m learning as I get older that a real friend is one who
will take time out of their busy schedule to pray for you and your concerns
(especially if it's Kingdom business and concerns the heart of God - which is a
person's eternal soul). If you believe that He's not willing that any should
perish, then we should have the same fervor and pray for these lost souls.
There's a harvest out there, get from the walls of your church, your "they're
cutting into MY blessing," and reach out to them.

It's a tragedy when we don't go out
to the world and help somebody else. We ridicule abused victims, those who
aren't living large like the leaders. It's all about "self gratification
and how many numbers we can get into a church." We forsake their soul in
the process. You can call me a cynic, but it's the truth whether you want to
admit it or not. Where's the evangelism? I'm willing to believe a friend of
mine when he says this: pastors are so introverted into their own church that
they never reached out and refused to even try. There is no unity in reaching
out to lost souls. How can a pastor walk out of a church when we bring up the
idea of reaching out to souls who are hurting, abused, dying and lost? What
kind of an example is this? We have the power of God in us; it's time for us to
stop keeping it to ourselves. We all need help and encouragement. No one person
is immune from attacks, and I don't care how spiritual you are. (I know, it
looks like I'm doing my blog now). Anyway, we need leaders who are on fire for
the Lord, focused on His will and not trying to hoard talents for the church,
sapping resources for that church. We are to share it with everyone. There
should be NO lack in the church. Again, the harvest is plentiful. I say no
more. If I have to go it alone, then I will. But we're going to have a lot of
blood on our hands if we don't change. This spirit of, egocentrism,
holier than thou, ignorance, and competition for self-aggrandizement needs to
go. We can say we love God, but turn around and say "forget those who need
prayer, I'm better than them anyway." This ignorance is sending people to
hell first class! One reason (and there are plenty more) why the church isn’t
being effective is because we’re too busying quarreling over who the next
president is going be versus seeking and saving the lost. Another reason is
we’re arguing over petty things. Example: One is considered “anti” if you argue
with someone or disagree in the slightest when it comes to church. Think about
this: if you are professing to be a church for Christ, why is talking about
Jesus in your church so taboo? Why is a man (living or dead) exalted higher
than Jesus in your church?

I believe with all of my heart that
someone needs a divine revelation of the reality of heaven is AND a divine
revelation of the reality of hell is. The world needs us to perform if we are
calling ourselves Christians. Someone is coveting our prayers. If you want to
be richly blessed, bless someone else.

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

It’s my prayer that you are reading this and you’re
feeling well today. If not, take comfort in this post. If you’re like me,
you’ve gone through something traumatic in your life (and probably still are)
where you feel that your life was sifted from you and/or has caused you to put
your life on hold. As a result, you are either living in fear or indecision.
You can overcome by praising God for the fact that you're still alive, and you
are here with a God-given purpose. What was supposed to sift you out or caused
you to put your life on hold didn't kill you, so that means God has His hands
on you even though you wonder why you had to go through. Feel free to ask Him
why, He loves you. There are probably a lot more questions going through your
mind, and it’s totally understandable. I dedicate this blog post to anyone who
has gone through a traumatic past and is still trying to get through it (or has
gotten through it).

I want to extend my hand to you in friendship and in love. I
understand that you might have felt alone at times wanting to give up in life.
That was my life (and I’ll put this out and say I struggle with it too). Your
past may not be my past, but mine was traumatic and I’m sure yours was too.
That’s one thing we have in common. Just know that we’re on this road to
recovery together and He has His hands on you.

I know there are going to be some people who read this and
ridicule me; I’m cool with that (considering I’m used to it). The one thing
remains though, I’m still alive and so are you. They tried to kill us, but
we’re still here. We have scars, but we’re still here. I hope you were able to
at least smile or cry tears of joy. Believe me when I say, it’s OK to cry.
Sometimes you have to on this road to recovery.

I know there are times when we’ve tried to pull ourselves up
by our own bootstraps, know that we can’t do this alone. We need each other on
a horizontal level (and say I need help), and we need to say to God that we
need help. There’s nothing wrong with asking for help, discern who to ask for
help (because not everybody will have your best interest at heart). The unique
thing about us considering we’ve survived what we did, is that we have sympathy
for others (which is lacking in this world today). Everyone today is so selfish
and out for themselves. And to add insult to injury, there are those who
haven’t gone through what you did, and they tell you either to “get over it,”
or “so what if I didn’t go through what you did; you need to grow up.” As a
result, you end up feeling like a second-class citizen. I understand there are
those who have good intentions, but they will never understand what you feel if
they haven’t lived through what you had to.

A word of encouragement: if you make it out before me, help
me out; and I’ll do the same vice versa. We’re in this together.

I don’t know who has heard this, but I’m sure an evil spirit
will tell you that Jesus was raped (which He was), but He didn’t say a word, so
that means you shouldn’t say a word now that you made it out (or you should’ve
allowed it to continue without saying a word). This is totally misinterpreting
the Scripture. Your voice needs to be heard. If more voices are raised, we can
truly change the world to wrong the rights. If we abused victims are
accountable, the abusers, the people who neglected us need to be accountable.
There must be a balance, wouldn’t you agree? For many of you, your stories have
touched me deeply and I want to say right here and right now that I love you
and that I will always have your back. If you need an ear (in most cases, many
of us know the answers to some of the questions in our mind and just need to
get what’s in our heart and spirit out), just let me know and I’ll listen.

One lingering question you might have, why did I go through
what I did? Well, we may not know the answer right now. But I am willing to
believe that you’re still alive to either share your testimony to someone who’s
about to go through what you did (or is trying to find a way out of their
pain), or you are to write a book, and the list goes on. I don’t know who that
is for along with this. You may have a ministry to teenagers, or a ministry
geared to men (if you’re a man) or women (if you’re a woman). And the fact
you’re still here to share your story is proof that He has His hands on you. I
hope right now you can raise your hands towards heaven and say thank you Jesus
for allowing me to stand here today.

I know what you went through has caused you to either live
in fear or wanting to not pursue your childhood dreams. You might even feel
that your life is on hold. I understand totally. Because you’re still here and
on the road to recovery, take a moment to find out what is your greatest
passion in life and what is your greatest talent (meaning: you know deep down
inside you’re good at it? Once you find that out, pursue it and God will bless
you (because His hand is on you). Acknowledge Him as you’re on that path. I also know that your healing isn’t an
overnight thing, it’s a process. God understands and will heal you in due time.
Meanwhile, pursue your unique calling from Him, because the world needs your
gift (and it’s not your body, OK). Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit.

In closing: shake off your fears and don’t be afraid to
live. It’s my prayer that this post encourages you. Feel free to comment (if
you want to remain anonymous, please do so). Your destiny from God is waiting
for you. Don’t worry about failing. You will fall down, just get up and know
that His hand is on you.

Monday, July 23, 2012

It's been a
while since I've done an author spotlight and I still intend to keep this
going. I'd like to turn your attention to an author who wrote a powerful book
in my opinion entitled "The Plus Factor." If this book doesn't move
you, I don't know what will. Hopefully, I will be able to write a book with her
to be released late next year. Anyway, the author spotlight for this week is my
sister & fellow author Tamika L. Sims.

Tamika
Sims, a South Carolina
native, survived a physically, emotionally, and sexually abusive relationship
of eight years. Tamika used the pain and suffering endured to write the book The
Plus Factor an autobiographical account of her journey from tragedy to triumph.
Tamika currently serves as an Advisory Board Member for the DH White Center for
Women and The Abigail Project whose mission is to empower, educate, and equip.

She believes strongly in volunteerism, civic engagement, and serving in her
local community. Tamika has received trainings in the following subjects and
more: Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Dating Violence, The Effects of
Domestic Violence on Children, and Domestic Violence in the Faith Community.

Tamika received the Bachelor's of Science Degree in Information Technology from
South University
- Columbia.

She enjoys writing, reading, music, singing, and is a self-proclaimed coffee
lover! Family and friends are most important to her and she devotes a
substantial amount of her time to develop sustaining relationships with them.

Tamika is inspired by the writings of Eleanor Roosevelt, one of her favorite
quotations is, “the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their
dreams."

Synopsis of
her book "The Plus Factor:"

The Plus
Factor is an autobiographical account of my journey from tragedy to triumph. It
describes in vivid detail my life as the victim in my former abusive
relationship. I invite the reader to come along and experience the highs and
the lows with me throughout my experience and travel with me on my road to
healing and rediscovering me. I also provide the reader with an in-depth look
into the mind of a batterer, the criminal justice system and how domestic
violence impacts the faith community. My abuser was a licensed and ordained
deacon in my former church. Therefore, I address the church’s discipline, or
lack thereof, or batterers.

Friday, July 20, 2012

Some of you who are reading this are probably going through
a struggle right now. It could be with your physical health, finances, place of
employment, career choices. It could also be family related, people wanting you
to fail to boost their ego, the will to live, and the list goes on. God is not
allowing you to be in that place just to leave you there permanently. He wants
you to pass the test so you can either help somebody else get through, to bless
someone else and you as well; most importantly, for Him to get the glory. Your
test/struggle is not in vain. Like I’ve done with some of previous posts, I
need to use some examples:

Abraham
was tested to see if he was faithful to God by sacrificing Isaac. We never
find Abraham questioning God, “why do you want me to sacrifice my son”;
instead, we find him saying to the young men traveling with him, “stay
here while Isaac and I worship the Lord.” Did Abraham pass? Yes!

Job
was tested to see if he would remain truthful to God while the devil
wreaks havoc in his life. Job makes faith statements such as “though He
slay me, yet I will trust Him” and “I know that my Redeemer lives and He
shall stand at the latter day upon the earth.

I could give more examples, but I believe you get the point.
I do need to say this; people will say that your challenges will be no more.
For the record, as long as you’re living on this earth, you will always have
tests, challenges or struggles to go through (some will be easy and some will
be difficult). Either way, our faith in God needs to be strong or a
relationship must be there so you can come out unscathed. Like I said in my
post from last week (The Faithfulness of God), I believe that we as a nation
are being tested from God to see if we’re going to look to ourselves, our
respective president, or anybody but God. He wants us to try Him so He can show
us His faithfulness. He’s done it with many people in the Bible and He will do
it for us, if we solely take Him at His Word. With that, we can pass any test.
Now, don’t think that our tests will be passed overnight. For some of us, it
may take days, months, and years to come out of one test (depending on the
assignment God has you on). Stay true to Him, He is with us. God will teach us many
things in our tests, and like the Hebrew boys in Daniel 3, we can come out of
the fire unharmed. Gold without fire can’t be pure gold, so take comfort when
we’re in the furnace of God, He’s trying to refine us make us shine brighter
than before.

While you’re in this test, swallow your pride thinking that
you have to put up a front for people. God may have to bring you down to raise
you up. That’s what He did with His Son, He had to die in order to be raised up. Don't be afraid to ask for prayer. We all need help in our tests (and God put us together to pass our respective tests). There will be those who will cheat, and try to get you to fail. So find someone who wants you to pass - not those trifling cheaters who not only want you to fail, but are failing themselves (and are probably so blind to the fact they're failing, they don't even realize it).

I close with this thought: most TESTimonies come after a TEST! Now that should give you
something to TESTify!

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

We all have a gift bestowed unto us by our Heavenly Father.
A small disclaimer: when I say gift, it can be translated as talent, purpose, or
calling. God has given it to us, and our responsibility is to use it for His
glory to bless other people. Now as we go forth and pursue it, there will come
a time where you will either be sidetracked or just feel like giving up (and
there are countless reasons). Let’s detour for a second and talk from the Bible
to show where people who didn’t quit though they had justifiable excuses to do
so if they did.

Joseph
was given a dream that would rescue his family from famine. After
revealing his dream to his brothers, Joseph was sold as a slave and
eventually faced hardships after being lied on by Potiphar’s wife. Joseph
had an excuse to quit, but he didn’t and as a result, the Lord was with
him.

Job
was under satanic attack and lost a lot in his life. His wife wanted him
to curse God and die. Job could’ve quit serving God, but he didn’t and as
a result, the Lord double-blessed him.

The
apostles were beaten for preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. They
could’ve quit doing that to preserve their lives, but they didn’t and as a
result, their ministry made an impact on the world (reference Acts
5:40-42).

Daniel
was thrown into the lion’s den for praying to God. He could’ve quit for
fear of his life, but he didn’t. As a result, Daniel made it known that
God is a protector to those who love Him.

The
three Hebrew boys were thrown into the fire that was 7x hotter than normal
for refusing to bow their knee to the king. They could’ve quit serving
God, but they didn’t. As a result, God walked through the fire with them.

What do we see here? If we’re serving God and bringing true
glory to Him, He will always be with us. God is not blind to what trials we
face.

Many of you have gifts that only you can do (and it has be
expressed through the creative arts, through service, or through other means)
that will bring glory to God and bless others tremendously. You must be
determined and disciplined to fulfill your gift. If you don’t, you’re robbing
yourself, God and others. You can’t quit now. The devil will throw many things
at you to get you off course to make you quit. Keep your hands to the plow. We
all need your gift just you all need my gift. Think back to when you wanted to
quit something, but God gave you the strength to keep going – and it thrust you
into your prophetic destiny. And I also want you to think back to when you
started something and how you felt when you gave up. I would venture to say
that when you kept going, you felt great and God extended your outreach. Trust
me when I say that I know everything has a season; the objective is to stay
obedient to Him at all times, so you don’t miss out when it’s your season. Even
if you do, it will come back around again (provided you don’t remain
disobedient).

I’ll even put this out there, there was a time in 2007 where
I almost gave up on writing after an editor rejected my first book (Take It
from Me). If some people didn’t encourage me to write, I would’ve been writing
and making an impact on a few people. God allowed me to cross paths with a few
people in 2009 and my first book was released and now it’s 2012, and I’ve
written my first novel. I almost gave up writing the novel as well due to some
personal issues going on in my life. Many of you didn’t know this, but if you
were to read the acknowledgements in my novel, I mentioned when thanking the
Lord that there was a point where I not only wanted to give up writing the
novel, but living as a whole due to those personal issues. A dark cloud was
over me during that time and I am so grateful that God sustained me through it
all. If I had ended my life without finishing my novel, how would people’s
lives be affected? Sure, God can use others to do something you should be
doing, but the beauty of God is that He called us individually for a specific
task. I said all of that to say this, if God has ordained you (which He has),
He will sustain you through it all. Never let go of Him because He will always
have His hand on you. And now that my novel is released, I’m so grateful to see
lives rescued from the spirit of suicide.

In short, though I could type a lot more, just know that you
can’t quit now because God will never quit on you! I better not forget this,
you will face opposition like Joseph, Job, the apostles and many others
recorded in Scripture, but you still can’t afford to quit now. Remember,
quitters never win!

Networked Blogs

Facebook Badge

About Me

Tremayne Moore (The "Mayne Man") is the principal of Maynetre Manuscripts, LLC, a publishing company. He is a singer/rapper, songwriter, spoken word motivational speaker and the author of the popular "You Can Take It" poetry series as well as two novels: Deaf, Dumb, Blind & Stupid (released May 2012) and Pieces of Me (released August 2013).
He currently holds a bachelor's degree in Accounting and in Management Information Systems.
His motto on life is summed up in the words of the Apostle Paul from Philippians: Christ shall be magnified in my body; whether by life or by death.